Some characteristics of suspicious packages and letters include the following:

• Excessive postage
• Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
• Incorrect titles
• Title, but no name
• Misspellings of common words
• Oily stains, discolorations or odor
• No return address
• Excessive weight
• Lopsided or uneven envelope
• Protruding wires or aluminum foil
• Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etc.
• Visual distractions

Precautions If You Work In A Mail Room Or Receive Suspicious Letters

• Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and warm water before and after handling the mail.
• Disposable latex gloves may be appropriate, especially if you have open cuts or skin lesions on your hands.

Helpful Phone Numbers

• Alameda County Public Health Department
  (510) 267-3250
• State of California
  Governor's Office of Emergency Services
  Safety and Information Referral Line
  (800) 550-5234

Helpful Web Sites

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.bt.cdc.gov
• California Governor's Office of Emergency Services: www.oes.ca.gov
• Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.fema.gov